“Peace, be still.”

One of my favorite statements in the Bible is “Peace, be still.”

We might think of this phrase being spoken in a calm, soothing manner, but in reality, Jesus stood in the middle of a boat, tossed by the raging sea, and commanded the storm to cease.

“Peace, be still!”

In light of what’s going on around us – in a sea of raging waters and turbulent times – I’m hearing His words loud and clear.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.” John 14:27 

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me, you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Do you hear the Lord’s comforting words of peace, too? If not, please don’t be discouraged. There are ways you, too, can hear Jesus above the noise of life’s storms.

1. Get away to a quiet place.

When was the last time you drove to a peaceful location to pray? (a park, scenic view, hiking trail, lake, etc.) Jesus did this on numerous occasions throughout His life on earth. He did this because He needed to commune with the Father, to refuel, and to pray for those He loved.

This often-overlooked step might be just the thing you need to hear Jesus’ words of “Peace, be still.”

2. Stop listening to the world.

When was the last time you took a social media sabbatical? (a rest from Facebook, Instagram, news channels, etc.) This is one way to reclaim God’s peace in your life, and though it isn’t easy at first, the longer you go the more at peace you feel. If this seems difficult (or even impossible) try fasting from one media source for 3 days, then add another and another until you are media-free for a set period of time.

Truly, this one change in your routine can recenter you on what is most important and give you the measure of peace you’ve been longing for.

3.  Do that thing God is calling you to do.

When was the last time God was leading you to do something, and you immediately obeyed? Perhaps, you can’t recall a time like this. But don’t worry – the Lord is faithful to remind each of us of His divine purpose. He works in us for His glory and the good of others. The thing is, we often do what we want instead.

Make the decision to turn your attention back to what God is asking you to do. You might just find a fresh dose of peace when you stop running from your God-given purpose and take a bold step in the right direction.

Jesus’ words, “Peace, be still,” remain just as powerful today as they were when He commanded the wind and the waves. And though they were spoken with great authority, they are some of the most calming, comforting words we can hear.

It’s this kind of peace I am praying for you today,

Jennifer

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